BJP’s state president Satpal Singh Satti is trying to corner the ruling Congress over the issue of rising cement price.

He said, "While in opposition, Congress leaders kept misleading people inside and outside the assembly by promising to reduce prices on coming to power and that in case companies do not slash prices, then cement would be brought in from other states. But after forming the government, they have maintained complete silence on the issue. Congress leader Mukesh Agnihotri was raising the issue prominently, but now, after becoming industries minister, he is silent on the issue."

The party has alleged that cement prices have increased by about seven times since the Congress came to power in the state. "People in Himachal Pradesh are forced to pay more than the neighbouring states as the Congress government in the state has failed to take required steps to slash cement prices. The entire matter should be investigated to bring the truth before the public," he said.

He further alleged that Congress is contesting the coming parliamentary elections on donations received from cement companies and in turn, the cement companies have been allowed to increase rates. "At whose patronage have companies increased prices thrice in a week? Why is the state government silent on the issue and not taking any action? People want to know," he added.